Take 5 November 2013

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Letters Arts news appreciated Just a note to say how wonderful it is to have an Arts and Entertainment section to promote local artists and productions.

Great to get such comprehensive coverage. Love your magazine. - Donna Laing

NCID newsletter.

In the latest NCID newsletter Bob Loos brought up the situation of absentee directors. As water is a necessity of life the supply of it should be taken much more seriously. The administration of that supply should not be a part time position. Recent announcements by the city of Nanaimo and the town of Ladysmith have shown that the supply of water is not guaranteed and that the supply is running low.

Ladysmith and Nanaimo have their eyes on the Cassidy aquifer as their own supply struggles to keep up with unfettered development.

It is only a matter of time before we will be either competing for the Cassidy aquifer water or possibly have Area A amalgamated into the city of Nanaimo.

We have already fought off Nanaimo’s insatiable desire for expansion when we defeated the proposed annexation of 50 acres of Area A to the city.

It’s time to take our community more seriously; perhaps it’s time to become a Municpality. - Melvin Bramley

Petition for Davis Road Elementary The Nanaimo-Ladysmith School District has a proposed plan to shut down several schools including Davis Road Elementary.

The proposed closure of Davis Road is being evaluated by a working group that includes the Mayor of Ladysmith.

My husband and I with the PAC at Davis Road Elementary have put together a petition urging the Ladysmith public and any interested, invested parties to sign on in support of keeping Davis Road School open. There is a consultation going on now until Dec 1st with various members of the school board, the mayor of Ladysmith, some members of school PACS. We hope to show, in concrete numbers, how many people value the school as positive educational model and as a community centre for the expanding south end Ladysmith and appeal to the Mayor and Council to work with the School Board to ensure Davis Road remain open.

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This is mainly taken from the body text of our online petition.

We hope people will read the info online and sign the petition: “Save Davis Road Elementary” and protect the future of Ladysmith’s south end. Sign to petition Mayor Rob Hutchins and Council to work with the Board of Education and ensure Davis Road Elementary remain open.

For the future of students and families and for the well being of our Ladysmith community, the time is now to let the Mayor and Council know that we need Davis Road Elementary to remain open.

Stop the attrition of students from Ladysmith and work to keep and foster Davis Road Elementary as a positive educational model and as the heart of Ladysmith’s south end community. We need to gather support now, well before the final decision on Davis Road School is made after December 18th.

Please show your support to keep Davis Road School open by signing the on line petition at wry.io/save-edr If you are unable to sign online please leave a message with the Parent Advisory Committee at the Davis Rd Elementary office: 250-245-7187 Include your name, phone number and address and we will arrange for someone to bring a hard copy for you to sign or direct you to the nearest business in town where the petitions will be available.

Thank you for your support and choosing to invest in a positive future for our students and our community. - Jessica Lowry

VI stamp reissue proposal We raised a proposal to Island MLA’s and MPs in early September - the 150th anniversary of the first stamp issued by the Vancouver Island Legislative Assembly. We are just now beginning to reach out to Canadians with an on-line Petition and an Open Letter (below).

We’re asking that the Vancouver Island 1865 stamp be reissued, offering a means to recognize and commemorate the 150th Anniversary of VI’s democratic governance. ...and please let us take this opportunity to provide an early notice of a morning meeting we’re organizing that will discuss formation of an ‘Island Roundtable on the Environment & Economy’. This will be followed by an afternoon meeting to plan next steps in the initiative for a ‘Vancouver Island Province’. Saturday November 16th, Cedar Heritage Centre, 1644 MacMillan Rd, Cedar, 10-4pm.

- Scott Akenhead (250 210-4410) or, Laurie Gourlay (250 722-3444) Vancouver Island Province info@viprovince.ca) <www. viprovince.ca.

Open Letter to Canadians excerpts The initiative to see Vancouver Island established as a province has received considerable attention for its proposal to re-issue an 1865 five cent stamp that recognizes and commemorates Vancouver Island’s history and contribution to Confederation.

We expect to submit a formal request to Canada Post by year’s end, and have posted an on-line Petition that will assist Island residents and Canadians who may wish to offer their support.

To date supporters of this proposal include Island MP Jean Crowder who wrote, “It is important that this significant date in Canada’s history and its contribution to Confederation be formally recognized. “

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And Island MLA, Andrew Weaver, noted, “I support the initiative to re-issue Vancouver Island’s five cent stamp to recognize our important history in the building of British Columbia.”

The on-line Petition notes that the Third House of Assembly of Vancouver Island began on September 2nd in 1863, with “the fifteen elected Island members sitting until August 31st 1866, representing and governing the independent Colony of Vancouver Island until unification with the colony of British Columbia ...(and calls upon) the government of Canada to recognize this significant date in the history of Vancouver’s Island, and to direct Canada Post to commemorate the Legislative Assembly of Vancouver Island’s important contribution to democratic governance in BC and in Confederation by re-issuing a copy of Vancouver Island’s five cent stamp, circulated in 1865.”

The on-line ‘Petition to Re-Issue a Vancouver Island 5¢ Stamp’ can be found at: http://www.change.org/petitions/ request-to-re-issue-the-1865-vancouverisland-5-stamp-commemorating-the150th-anniversary-of-vancouver-islands-early-democratic-governance?utm_ campaign=petition_created&utm_ medium=email&utm_source=guides - Scott Akenhead & Laurie Gourlay

Let’s Serve Veterans as Well as They Have Served Us

BY DANIEL M. DELLINGER During the recent government shutdown many numbers were thrown around. But there is one number that stands out and it has nothing to do with the debate over the federal budget.

More than one a day. That is how many members of our active-duty military, National Guard and Reserve forces have committed suicide over the last year. Simply put, we are losing more service members by their own hands than we are by the enemy in Afghanistan.

Only those who experienced firsthand the horrors of combat can understand why most of these young men and women feel compelled to take such drastic and permanent measures.

As Veterans Day ceremonies and parades occur throughout the country, it is important that we commit ourselves to do everything possible to prevent these needless and tragic deaths.

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We are their friends, their family, their co-workers and their neighbors. It is up to us to ensure that every veteran feels that his or her service to this country is appreciated by their fellow Americans.

There are many tangible ways that we can acknowledge their sacrifice, but the easiest is to simply say, “Thank you for what you have done for our country.”

If he is showing signs of unhappiness or depression, encourage him to seek help through the VA immediately. If she has had difficulty obtaining the benefits that she is entitled to, let her know that The American Legion has thousands of trained service officers nationwide that will help her navigate the bureaucracy free of charge.

And if that veteran has made the Supreme Sacrifice, remember the price that has been paid for our freedom and offer your support to the loved ones left behind.

But Veterans Day is a time to honor not just those who have fought for us in battle, but, in fact, all of the outstanding men and women who served in our nation’s Armed Forces since our founding

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more than 237 years ago.

Not all veterans have seen war, but a common bond that they share is an oath in which they expressed their willingness to die defending this nation.

Perhaps most significant in preserving our way of life are the battles that America does not have to fight because those who wish us harm slink away in fear of the Navy aircraft carrier, the Coast Guard cutter, the Air Force fighter squadron or the Army soldier on patrol. Or they have heard the words that recently retired General James Mattis shared with his Marines: “Be polite. Be professional. But have a plan to kill everybody you meet.”

While we should all be grateful for the remarkable advancements made in military medicine and prosthetics, the fighting spirit and inspirational stories of our veterans are not due to technology.These traits come from the heart.

And many of these veterans are women, such as Army Chief Warrant Officer Lori Hill. While piloting her helicopter over Iraq in 2006, she

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maneuvered her chopper to draw enemy gunfire away from another helicopter and provide suppressive fire for troops on the ground. Despite flying a damaged aircraft and suffering injuries, she landed the helicopter safely, saving her crew. For her actions, she became the first woman to receive the Distinguished Flying Cross.

Women are major contributors to our military presence in Afghanistan and many have given their lives in the War on Terrorism. The American Legion recently issued a report calling upon VA to improve its response to the unique needs of women veterans. The VA and military health systems need to adequately treat breast and cervical cancer as well as trauma that resulted from domestic violence, sexual harassment and assault.

America is home to more than 1.2 million women veterans and they deserve our support.

In the poem “Tommy,” the great writer Rudyard Kipling lamented over the rude treatment a British soldier received at a pub. Writing in classical old English, Kipling compared the abuse with the more favorable treatment that “Tommy” receives by the public during war.

“For it’s Tommy this, an ‘ Tommy that, an’ ‘Chuck him out, the brute!’

But it’s ‘Savior of ‘is country’ when the guns begin to shoot; An’ it’s Tommy this, an’ Tommy that, an’ anything you please; An’ Tommy ain’t a bloomin’ fool – you bet that Tommy sees!”

Let us always treat our 23 million veterans as the saviors of our country that they are.

Even when the guns are no longer shooting.

Daniel M. Dellinger is national commander of the American Legion.

Letters to the Editor are welcome but subject to space and editing. Letters do not necessarily reflect the opinion of TAKE 5. email editor@take5.ca, or post at www.take5.ca, fax: 250-245-7099 or write TAKE 5 PO Box 59 Ladysmith, BC V9G 1A1 or visit us on facebook. com/take5publications

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Remembrance Day 2013 The annual Poppy Drive has begun. You see them standing outside of cafes, stores and anywhere people gather, the dedicated volunteers for The Royal Canadian Legion 171 selling bright red poppy pins. The poppy is the symbol of Remembrance Day. Replica poppies are sold by the Royal Canadian Legion to raise money for needy veterans.

Remembrance Day services Beginning at 10:30am the Remembrance Day parade starts at the Legion Hall, 621 First Avenue ending at the Ladysmith Cenotaph, followed by the Opening Service and two minutes of silence. There will be refreshments for veterans and adults at the Legion Hall and children participating in the services will be served refreshments at the Aggie Hall. No matter where you are on November 11 at 11am please observe the two minutes of silence to show your appreciation for all who have lost their lives protecting our freedom.

If you are not able to attend the services on November 11, the following are alternative times. The Legion Colour Party and Band will be visiting The Lodge on Fourth on November 7, Ladysmith Secondary School and La Rosa Gardens on November 8 and Ladysmith First United Church November 10.

Local Veteran Bill Hopkins story

BY GEORGINA LORETTE Bill Hopkins joined the British Navy in July 1942 when he was seventeen years old. He and three friends went to sign up, but gave birth dates that indicated they were underage. Undeterred, they went to the pub for a drink and a meal. Later that afternoon, two of them returned to the recruiting office, gave a different birth date and were accepted into the service. He passed his medical in October and was called up in April 1943.

Three months were spent training in Portsmouth and then they were sent to Asbury Park New Jersey.

The HMS Eastway was built by Newport News Shipbuilding and Dry Dock and launched in May 1943. The crew picked up the ship in September and did sea trials. The ship was built to carry forty five landing craft. The crew went back to New York for two weeks, where the dock was filled with aircraft and they sailed for England. More sea trials were conducted around England, followed by two weeks leave.

Eastway then sailed to Gibraltar and Malta – loaded with landing craft for the Sicily invasion. They then sailed back to England, had a one week leave, returning later to clean the beaches and take the landing craft to Bizerte, Tunisia to be repaired and reused in the south of France. (Bizerte had been occupied by the Germans, and was retaken by American troops on May 7, 1943.)

Fresh supplies were needed, and Naples, Italy was where they were picked up. The ship carried a crew of 128. Bill was an able seaman, but was once chosen to work in the galley, when another crewman was indisposed. He learned how to make bread, (in a hopper – one hundred loaves at a time) pies and tarts. The skipper of the Eastway was a good man – overlooked some goings on, and treated everyone well. One evening, the sailors from the Eastway got into a bit of a donnybrook with some

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American soldiers. Called up on the carpet, the skipper said to them “You are causing me some trouble.” Then he asked “who won?” The sailors assured him they had come out on top, and it was “Case dismissed.”

The ship returned to England to get ready for the next invasion. They would take landing craft from Portsmouth to Appledore, Cardif, or Newcastle and drop them off. This was to confuse the Germans – where would the invasion be launched from?

The ship was in Portsmouth when the Canadian soldiers arrived, around the end of May. The weather was changing for the worse, and the invasion was postponed. The Eastway was sent up to the north of Scotland – near Scapa Flow - where the weather got worse. They couldn’t get into port, so the skipper decided to head into the storm. The announcement came that the invasion was a go, and the Eastway headed for Normandy.

They arrived at Juno at 0800 (Bill said that 0500 would have been the ideal time) and dropped their troops. During the days the Canadian soldiers had been on the ship, they gotten to know the Eastway crew. One fellow asked Bill where he was from, as he found the accent familiar. Bill said he was from Bath, and the young man said his aunt lived there. It turned it was very close to where Bill lived, and he agreed to stop in and say hello on his next leave. He did so, in November of 1944, was welcomed with open arms, and reassured the lady that her nephew had reached the shore during the Normandy invasion. Unfortunately, Bill didn’t stay in touch with the aunt or the nephew, so the story ends there.

Bill left the navy after the war, and he came to Canada with his family in 1958. He has been a Legion member for 50 years.

Searching for information on the Eastway, I discovered it was returned to the United States on April 23, 1946, then went to Greece in 1953 and renamed Nafkratoussa. It was scrapped in 1972.

Above: The HMS Eastway ship was where Bill Hopkins served.

Right: Bill Hopkins

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Cedar Yellow Point Artisan Tour celebrates 25 years The annual self-guided Cedar Yellow Point Artisan Country Christmas Tour celebrates 25 years this November 21, 22, 23 and 24. You will find locally-produced edibles, native art, jewelry, original paintings, woodwork, pottery, fiber arts and more. Take this scenic tour, experience delicious scenery, stunning country roads dotted with farms, studios, restaurants, shops and wildlife. Discover many celebrated artists and the wonders of Cedar and Yellow Point.

Marg Worms of The Doll House Gift Shop has been on the tour for all of those 25 years. While Fredrich’s Honey, Hazelwood Herb Farm, Fiddick’s Farm and JoVic Pottery have been on the tour almost as long. Josee and Victor of JoVic Pottery said “We love being part of this tour. It is great to see people who come every year, they are like old friends.”

More than 22 studios will dazzle visitors on the tour this year. Five new artisans will be sure to peak your gift giving curiosity: Fern & Feather, Yonder Wood, Yellow Point Stained & Art Glass, Magnolia Pond Collectibles and Monika’s Quilt and Craft Shop are eagerly awaiting shoppers’.

Stop by Yeosmith Studios for demos and hum along with The Moonshine Mollys show Saturday afternoon. Yellow Point Cranberries Farm has their popular tasting room open, so stop by this popular venue. Barson Studio features original art, as does Blue Ox Studio, Lohmann Gallery & Giftshop, and The Broody Rooster. Cable Bay Studio offers an array of items under $20, photography and handmade fabric items.

Looking for incredible First Nations art?

Noel Brown Native Art is often a sellout so arrive early. Looking for jewellery and cool stuff? Jane Perala Designs, Hepburn Cottage and The Cedar Heritage Studio will add to your adventure in the country and you will be bringing home extraordinary treasures. Visit Yel-

low Point Alpaca for yarn and Alpaca garments, you can even pet an Alpaca.

Visit each artisan in their own creative working environment, get to know the creator, their techniques and ask questions. Take home a unique experience and a remarkable piece of art.

This year visitors and locals will have the perfect opportunity to get ahead of the Christmas shopping rush as the tour will feature more than 22 individual artisans and their original work for you to view and purchase. Pick up a brochure as local businesses or down load a map and watch for the tour signs to help guide you on the tour.

The complete tour can be done in one day but why not make it a weekend and stay in a local B&B? Enjoy lunch or dinner at one of the many fine restaurants, coffee shops or pubs that are featured in the brochure. They offer some of the best food in the area.

Whether you are new to the tour or have always wanted to go, or a veteran, mark the dates on your calendar, gather up your friends, empty the trunk so you have lots of room for purchases, plan to have fun. For more info www.cyartisans. com or 250-245-5286. (above) Vic Duffhues of JoVic Pottery will be one of the studios on the annual Country Christmas Tour by the Cedar Yellow Point Artisans. (right) Gift shop at Hazelwood Herb Farm.

Photos submitted.

Craft Fairs and Seasonal Events

YOUR HOLIDAY PLANNER

Nov 1-3, 24th Annual Nanaimo Professional Craft Fair, Fri. 12-8, Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-4. Hourly door prizes and refreshments, admission $4. Beban Park Centre, 2300 Bowen Rd., Nanaimo. 250390-3995 Nov 2, 11am, Mary Fox Pottery Sale 2013, 321-3rd Ave., Ladysmith. 250245-3778 Nov 2, 11am–2pm, CWL Christmas Bazaar at St. Mary’s Parish, 1153 4th Ave., lunch, crafts, sewing, baking.

Books and lots of gift ideas. 250-2453414 Nov 9, 11am–2pm. St. John’s Anglican Church Christmas Bazaar, 314 Buller St. Lunch, bake table, crafts, and more. 250-245-8872 Nov 14-15, 12-8pm, 34th Annual Christmas Chaos, Island Savings Centre, 2687 James St., 250-748-7529

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Nov 15-16, 9am-5pm, Christmas Studio Sale, YellowPoint Country Home, 3172 Farrar Rd. 250-245-4238 Nov 16-17, 10am - 5pm, 34th Annual Christmas Chaos, Island Savings Centre, 2687 James St., 250-748-7529 Nov 16, 11am – 2pm. Christmas Bazaar and Tea. Bake table, crafts, jewelry, kid’s area, and books along with tea. Ladysmith First United Church Hall, 232 High Street.

Nov 16, 10am – 2pm, South Wellington & Area Community Association Christmas Craft Sale, South Wellington Community Hall, 1555 Morden Rd. 250754-2820 Nov 21-24, 10am – 4pm. Carols Crafters 5th Annual Christmas Craft Fair at the North Oyster Community Centre, 13467 Cedar Rd. 250-754-8905 Nov 21-24, 10am-5pm, 25th Annual Yellowpoint Country Christmas Self Guided Tour. Four days of fun food and local artisan talent. www.cyartisans.com Nov. 22 – Dec 23, It’s a Wonderful Life, Chemainus Theatre Festival. 250246-9820 Nov 22, 12-3pm, Ladysmith Legion Ladies Auxiliary Christmas Tea & Bazaar. Lunch is $5.00, bake sale, white elephant sale, crafts and much more. 621 1st Ave., 250-245-2273 Nov 23, 9am – 12pm, Christmas Pancake Breakfast with Santa, prepared by N.O.A.H.S. at the Cedar Community

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Hall. Breakfast: Kids $2, Adults $5, door prizes, crafts, fun for everyone!

Nov 23-24, 10am-3pm, 1st Annual Christmas Craft Fair & Market at the Legion #256, 1630 Wellington Rd., Nanaimo. 250-618-7918

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Dec 1, 9am – 2pm. Christmas Craft Fair, Chemainus Legion Hall, 9775 Chemainus Rd. 250-246-4532 Dec 6-8, 4-9pm, Christmas Express, BC Forest Museum, 2892 Drinkwater Road, Duncan, 250-715-1113 ext. 23.

Nov 24, 10am - 3pm, Chemainus Firehall Craft Fair 9901 Chemainus Rd. 250246-3121

Dec 6-15, 3pm & 7pm, Yellow Point Christmas Spectacular, Cedar Hall, 2388 Cedar Rd. 250-754-8550

Nov 28, 12pm, Ladysmith Museum will be open for Festival of Lights.

Dec 6, LDBA hosts An Old Fashion Community Christmas downtown Ladysmith.

Nov 28, 3pm. 26th Annual Festival of Lights, entertainment, concessions, craft fair at the Aggie Hall, spaghetti dinner at the Eagles Hall, Kinsmen Parade along 1st Ave, LDCU Fireworks Spectacular.

Nov 28, 3pm. Ukrainian Dinner upstairs Legion Hall. Cabbage rolls, bratwurst sausage, perogies, dessert and drink. Adults $ 10, $5 children (12- ) Advanced tickets available Nov 01, 2013 in the Lounge.

Dec 6, Christmas Cirque Spectacular, Port Theatre, 125 Front St., 250-7548550 Dec 6, 7pm, A Celtic Christmas, Cowichan Theatre 2687 James St., Duncan 250-748-7529 Dec 7th, 9am, Breakfast with Santa, Chemainus Elementary School 3172 Garner St.

Nov 28, 6pm. Enjoy hot chocolate by donation for the Royal Shelter Foundation in from of Royal LePage office, 528 1st Ave.

Dec 8, 2:30pm, Brigadoon Dance Academy – Christmas Eve in Scotland, Port Theatre, 125 Front St., 250-7548550

Nov 30, 10am - 2pm Cassidy Mobile Home Park Craft Fair. Bake table, crafts, tea and raffle. 1572 Seabird Rd. 250245-2725

Dec 8. 6:30pm, 37th Annual Ladysmith Christmas Festival of Choirs at St. Mary’s Church, 1135 4th Ave. Enjoy an evening of music.

Nov. 30, 9:30am – 3pm, Christmas Craft Fair. Town & Country Mobile Home Park, 10980 Westdowne Rd. Free admission. For more information 250245-8655

Dec 12 – 13, CHRISTMAS DINNER – Tickets available starting Nov. 21 Members $15, Guest $20 Chemainus Seniors Drop In Centre, 9824 Willow St., 250-246- 2111 Dec 13, 7pm, Tempo & Rhythm Dance Academy – The Grinch, Port Theatre, 125 Front St., 250-754-8550 Dec 13-15, 4-9pm, Christmas Express, BC Forest Museum,, Duncan, 250-7151113 ext. 23.

Dec 14th, Chemainus Christmas Walking Tour Dec 14, 6pm. Mt. Brenton Power & Sail Squadron Ladysmith Christmas Sail Past Transfer Beach. Bonfire, refreshments. 250-245-8339

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Dec 14, Winter Harp, Port Theatre, 125 Front St., 250-754-8550 Dec 14, Chemainus Christmas Carol Ship, Fraternal Order of Eagles and BC Ferries, 250-246-3947 Dec 14, 8 & 10:30am, LaFF’s Breakfast with Santa, Aggie Hall 1110 1st Ave. Early bird tickets (Nov 1-30) $6.00 ea. Regular tickets (Dec 1-13) $8.00 ea.

Children under 2 are free.Tickets available at FJCC as of Nov 1.

Dec 14, Chemainus Little Town Christmas, Old fashioned fun in Waterwheel Park, 250-246-1448 Dec 15, 2pm, Winter Harp, Cowichan Theatre, 2687 James St., Duncan. 250748-7529 Dec 18, 7pm, Queen of Angels Christmas Concert, Cowichan Theatre, 2687 James St., Duncan. 250-748-7529 Dec 18, 7:30pm, A Rock’N’Roll Christmas, Port Theatre, 125 Front St.

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For more information please call 250754-8550 Dec 20, 7pm, Nutcracker, Cowichan Theatre, 2687 James St., Duncan. 250748-7529 Dec 20-23, Christmas Pantomime, Ladysmith Little Theatre, 4985 Christie Rd. 250-924-0658 Dec 20-23, 4-9pm, Christmas Express, BC Forest Museum, 2892 Drinkwater Road, Duncan, 250-715-1113, ext. 23.

Dec 21, 1pm, Nutcracker, Cowichan Theatre, 2687 James St., Duncan. 250748-7529 Dec 26-31, Christmas Pantomime, Ladysmith Little Theatre, 4985 Christie Rd. 250-924-0658 Dec 31, 7pm. New Years Eve Dinner Dance, The Cotton Club, 1975 Haslam Rd. Call 250-245-5157 to reserve your table!

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‘Once Upon a Night’ Gala Fundraiser Connoisseurs of fine art and great times - welcome to the feature Chemainus Theatre Festival fundraising event of the year! You are invited on Saturday, November 16, 2013 for ‘Once Upon a Night...a celebration of the arts’.

This year’s event includes an extraordinary display of the Arthur Vickers collection received earlier this year from the Pink family. The online auction will close at the Gala for final bids on favourite pieces. There will also be a wonderful silent auction with items donated by local businesses and lovers of the theatre.

This year the Theatre is excited to present Award-winning Canadian singer-actor Joelle Rabu. A favourite artist of Chemainus Theatre patrons, Joelle is renown for her brilliant portrayal of Edith Piaf in the highly acclaimed Tonight...

Piaf! Also featuring are two exceptional local musical artists - Zandra Burns and Chemainus Theatre’s own Samantha Currie.

‘Once Upon a Night...’ is the CTF signature fundraising event of the year and

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they depend on the support of their community for the night’s success. The nonprofit society relies on sponsors, donors, and this auction, to help raise funds to support the work on stage and in their educational programming.

Purchase your tickets and join in an evening of exceptional entertainment, exciting auctions, and scrumptious food.

This year’s event is proudly presented

by Cowichan Sound & Cellular. Tickets are $40 each, call the Box Office 1-800565-7738

Dracula continues to thrill Before vampire chronicles became trendy prime-time entertainment, there was Dracula. The Tony Award-winning Broadway play continues to November 9, at the Chemainus Theatre.

Producing a legend is epic work, both on- and off-stage. Supporting the vision of director Bernard Cuffling is musical director, Nico Rhodes; set designer, Pam Johnson; lighting artist Marsha Sibthorpe; costumer Mara Gottler, sound technician Paul Tedeschini, and stage manager David Baughan. Together, they

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bring the enchantment of Count Dracula’s diabolical ambitions “to life”. Contact the Chemainus Theatre Festival box office 1-800-565-7738.

Ladysmith Players Heiress The Heiress, Ruth and Augustus Goetz’s award-winning play, based on the Henry James classic novella, “Washington Square” is now playing at Ladysmith Little Theatre.

This highly popular play features Kyla Mitrovic, Gord McInnis, Dave Ehle, Lynnia Clark, Lesley Lee, Deanna Attwood, Jada Bohmer, Torry Clark and Carina Gee. The ‘’heiress’’ Catherine’s specialty gowns are designed and made by Micheal MacKinnon and the opulent set is designed by Jolyon Brown. Directed

by Bill Johnston and produced by Carol Sparham - “The Heiress”, you won’t want to miss it! Continues to November 10, 2013 at Ladysmith Little Theatre, 4985 Christie Road, Ladysmith.

Tickets are $20, available at: Box office 250-924-0658, or book online at www.ladysmiththeatre.com

COCO Café wins 25K Since opening in June of 2011, COCO Cafe has become a bustling community hub in Cedar that truly is “Where friends meet”. Now they are an established cafe that serves speciality coffees, soups and sandwiches made fresh to order from scratch using local ingredients. They offer a variety of menu selections that cater to special dietary needs such as gluten free, dairy free, vegetarian, and vegan options.

On October 28, the COCO Cafe was one of two $25,000 winners for the West Region of the National Co-op Challenge, a social media contest created by The Co-operators as an opportunity for emerging co-ops to win valuable prizes aimed at growing their businesses.

How does the National Co-op Challenge work? A panel of judges narrow

the list of entrants to 16 finalists. Each finalist will produce a creative video up to 90-seconds in length that highlights their co-op, shows their commitment and enthusiasm for co-op growth, and explains how they would use the funding. Each video will then be available on Facebook, where co-op fans and the

Jamie Kolk and Aaron Stone celebrate 10 years of Uforik Computers.

Photo: Cindy Damphousse

public can vote for their favourite to win.

A delighted Sydni Dines, acting manager of the café, says, “From the bottom of our hearts we would like to thank each and everyone one of you for taking the time to cast your vote, and for choosing COCO Cafe & Cedar Opportunities Cooperative! We can’t express our gratitude enough.” The cafe has taken over 600 square feet of space next to the cafe, and are renovating to expand the kitchen. The prize money of $25,000 will be a big help.

Cedar Opportunities Co-operative (COCO) is an incorporated cooperative whose mission is to employ people with developmental disabilities within their community. COCO was founded by a group of families in the Cedar/Yellowpoint/Cassidy areas of Nanaimo, British Columbia, all of whom have adult children with developmental disabilities.

Local business turns 10 This November Uforik Computers celebrates its 10th Anniversary in business with lots of specials.

Ask Aaron Stone about Uforik ComCOCO Cafe recently was awarded $25,000. (l-r back) Mark Stevlingson, Karla Moorman, Catina Schofield, (l-r front) Olivia Levesque and Ashley Keswick. Photo: Nick Longo

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puters and he says with pride “We’re a different kind of computer store. We’ve built our business on strong pricing, top quality service and by clearly offering the best overall value in the market. We’re not perfect, but we work hard to deliver a premium computer experience at the most reasonable price available. Our price ‘out the door’ beats the big box stores while providing a better experience for you ‘out of the box. We do the research and pick the best of what’s available to stock our shelves. We’ve done the research, and checked the facts, and we have the hands on experience to help you find the right computer or accessory. ” When asked what he feels is their best accomplishment, Aaron says, “Being in business 10 years in a small town. We are also very committed to being involved in the community.”

Staying positive during lean times - not thinking that it was the end of the world, and staying focused were two of their challenges but the biggest one was accounting “Once we had a great accountant on board it was easy.”

Some of the changes in the last 10 years have included personal growth and maturity which Aaron feels have made him a better business person. The greatest change for him was starting a business and then 12 months becoming a father.

He is becoming more politically minded, wanting to make sure the legacy that is left for future generations is going in the right direction. A sports-minded guy, you will see him at one of the soccer fields at least 2 or 3 times a week.

And as far as Ladysmith goes, he says, “We are very happy that we decided to start our business here, it has allowed us to raise our families in a great community. I would like to thank the community for your continued support and a special thanks to Luke Kolk who has been a big part of our success. Lastly but not least, without the support of a great staff and my partner Jamie Kolk, Uforik would not be where it is today.”

A huge anniversary sale with a big party is planned on November 16 when they’ll be bringing in lots of great stock at super prices to celebrate.

Power-full new film Are corporations paving a perilous path directly into our homes? Smart Meters exposed. TAKE BACK YOUR POWER - a new film by Josh del Sol is being presented Thursday, November 14 from 1:30 to3:30pm at the Eagles Hall , 921 First Avenue, Ladysmith. Admission is by donation. Sponsored by friends of - Citizens For Safe Technology.org.

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Cross on the Rock in Ladysmith On Sunday, October 27 Ladysmith hosted Crosstoberfest, the fourth race of the ‘Cross on the Rock’ Island series. Normon Thibault, one of the organizers, said “we have been putting on cross races since 2003.Our first COTR series was in 2006 with four events with only 159 riders. This year we have six events with over 400 riders already and we are also hosting provincial championships.” This was the third time Ladysmith has hosted a Cross on the Rock Race. 210 racers showed up to compete in the sunshine beating last year’s attendance of 208 “We have hosted the race at Transfer Beach since 2011. It is an amazing venue with lots of great features, good parking, great access and it is close to both Victoria and Nanaimo,” says Norm.

Being the last weekend of October many racers chose to dress and race in costume, with prizes awarded for the best costume.

In the open womens’ category it was a tough battle between Dawn Anderson and Carey Mark who seemed to change positions each lap with Carey Mark taking the win by 36 seconds.

The next race is “My Little Pony Cross” hosted by Mid Island Velo Association at the Arbutus Meadow Equestrian Centre north of Nanaimo.

More information and full race results are at www.crossontherock.com

Softball returns!

After a two year hiatus, softball is returning to Ladysmith in a big way. Following a survey of Ladysmith schools in late September, the Ladysmith Baseball Association has received an expression of interest from over 220 girls for a softball program affiliated with Softball B.C. operating through LBA, commencing in the spring of 2014. In preparation for this season, LBA is currently asking coaches and umpires to step forward. Clinics and seminars will be available over the winter to help train volunteers for these and other positions. LBA is committed to providing our youth with this sporting experience. To be part of our team, please contact Rob McLachlan at 250-616-6376 or rodmclachlan@shaw.ca

Hot Dogs for the Food Bank The Ladysmith Kinsmen and the 49th Parallel Grocery are having their annual Food Bank Drive and Hot Dog Sale on November 16 and 17 at the Ladysmith 49th Parallel Grocery from 9am to 5pm. “Our goal is to beat the results of last year of $1500 in donations and over one ton of food.” To donate in advance contact James Delcourt at 250 245 3137

Local Ride for Hospice care raises $23,000 Cowichan Valley Hospice Society congratulates 25 local cyclists for their two day, 170 kilometre ride in support of local The wait is over! After 16 years the 49th Parallel Grocery Store in Chemainus has a new home. On October 28 the doors officially opened with a ribbon cutting ceremony. The town of Chemainus now has a brand new store located at the Chemainus Village Square, 3055 Oak Street. Congratulations 49th Parallel Family way to grow!

Peter and Kathy Richmond in front of the new 49th Parallel Grocery store in Chemainus. Photo: Marina Sacht

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hospices. In its third year, the Cycle of Life Tour brought together enthusiastic participants with both a love of cycling and a passion for compassionate end of life care. The Cycle of Life Tour’s inaugural ride in 2011 was a solo 3,200 kilometer trek from Anchorage, Alaska to Victoria, BC by founder Graham Robertson. Robertson presented Cowichan Valley Hospice’s Executive Director Gretchen Hartley with a cheque for $5,000. “This $5,000 gift is very timely as we embark upon new more intensive client counselling training for volunteers,” sid Hartley.

Cowichan Valley Hospice Society provides skilled, compassionate support services to those living with advanced illnesses, their families and friends, and those grieving the loss of a loved one, www.cowichanvalleyhospice.org

Ladysmith Kinsmen past president Kevin Pugh, is putting on one of the signs to let people know that the toilets are being provided by the Ladysmith Kinsmen Club.

Over the years they had heard folks talk about the lack of toilets on the Holland Creek Trail so the Kinsmen Club of Ladysmith have provided two porta-potties for the use of people using the trail. Coast Environmental worked with the club and there are now toilets placed at the Mackie Road entrance to the trail and in the trail parking lot off Dogwood Drive. Earlier on two wheelchair accessible washrooms were built by the club at the info kiosk at Sixth and Methuen for the trail.

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Ladysmith Festival of Lights 26th Anniversary Light-Up The Town of Ladysmith on beautiful Vancouver Island will be transformed once again into a magical place of sparkling and twinkling holiday lights and decorations, beginning with an afternoon and evening spectacular celebration on Thursday, November 28, 2013.

The Ladysmith Festival of Lights Society would like to take this opportunity to issue a heartfelt invitation to all our neighbours and friends throughout Vancouver Island, the Pacific Northwest and beyond to come to Ladysmith to take part in our 26th Anniversary of Light-Up Night. These fun-filled, familyoriented festivities will welcome the 2013 holiday season and nowhere are the lights brighter and warmer than in this charming little town by the sea. Our hillside community will be ablaze with over 100,000 dazzling lights presented in a style echoing of years gone by. From Coronation Mall at the south end of town, to the downtown core on First Avenue and all the way to Aggie Field at the north end, a never-ending delight of turn of the century businesses and homes will glow and twinkle as a result of thousands of hours of volunteer work.

The Festival fund raising community spaghetti dinner at the Eagles Hall and the Festival Craft and Artisan Fair at the Aggie Hall begin at 3 pm. Everyone is welcome and this year it should prove to be an even bigger and better presentation so come early. Also, many great restaurants throughout Ladysmith will be open to serve you with an excellent choice of delicious meals plus a variety of food concessions will be located all along First Avenue. Wandering entertainers and musicians will delight the child in all of us plus stages at two downtown locations will present more local musical talents. As night falls over the dark-

ened street, Santa Claus himself will arrive from the North Pole to pull the big switch that magically turns on all the lights. The ever-popular Kinsmen parade will begin along First Avenue and proceed to the Aggie Field where more spectacular LightUps take place at Bob Stuart Park and the mighty Chuck Perrin Christmas tree. Enter your business in the parade; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fun. The evening will conclude with spectacular fireworks presented by the Ladysmith & District Credit Union. The Ladysmith Museum will be open from noon until 8pm on Light Up Night. It will then be closed for the winter months until Spring 2014.

The Festival of Lights Society would like to acknowledge the generous support they receive from local and area businesses and private individuals including corporate sponsors: the Ladysmith & District Credit Union, Town of Ladysmith, Agropur, Division Natrel â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Island Farms, Ladysmith and Chase River Tim Hortons, and CTV. In 1987, Bill Fitzpatrick first considered the concept of stringing a few lights on local business buildings to draw some attention to the approaching holiday season. He could never have imagined how his small idea has now become a yearly event for over 20,000 visitors who join Santa in flipping the light switch.

It is through the unfailing and generous efforts of the countless volunteers that our tradition remains alive and well in Ladysmith.

If you would like to participate, either at the volunteer or board level, new faces and new ideas are welcome. Contact the Festival of Lights at 250-245-5888, e-mail info@ladysmithfol. com or visit their website at www.ladysmithfol.com.

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An Old Tyme Christmas In 2012, the Ladysmith Downtown Business Association turned back time to bring the true meaning of Christmas into the hearts of its residents by offering a night of carollers, chestnuts and a candlelit walk.

An Old Tyme Christmas immediately became a holiday hit with the families of the town and the nostalgia will return on Friday, December 6, 2013. Join us for an evening of quiet local festivities, intimate moments with friends and family over a cup of hot cocoa and try a roasted chestnut or two as the scents fill the air.

An Old Tyme Christmas and Candlelight Walk, Friday, Dec. 6, from 5pm – 8pm, events: 5:00pm – The night begins along First Avenue and the festivities will go on until 8pm.

5:30pm – Head to the Library parking lot to get in line for a carriage ride! Sponsored by Ladysmith & District Credit Union, the horses and carriage will run until 7:30pm.

6:00pm - Gather in the LDCU parking lot for the start of the Candlewalk and take a stroll under the First Avenue lights with your loved ones and share the light of the holiday season.

6:00pm – Santa arrives at the Library parking lot.

All through the evening the street will be alive with the voices of the returning Bethel Church Singers, The Ladysmith Singers, LAFF Little Christmas Choir, and new this year – the Ladysmith United Church Choir, the Ladysmith Celebration Brass, and the Ladysmith Little Theatre Pantomime Troupe.

Stores will be open late to help with your holiday shopping and childminding is available to let parents wander and surprise the little ones Oceanview Community Church is preparing a night of crafts to keep them busy! Gift wrapping is available to keep the contents a secret until Christmas morning!

Prepare your list and check it twice – Christmas shopping in Ladysmith for all who are nice! Contact Cathleen McMahon at info@mmgrp.ca or 250-668-3338.

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I Remember “There is a certain enthusiasm in liberty that makes human nature rise above itself, in acts of bravery and heroism.” Alexander Hamilton I remember my mom’s smile as she spoke of adventure and challenge, of friends and loyalties, of times of hardship, demands and shortages that saw one and all in the same boat, rowing towards a distant and unknown horizon.

WWII arrived and my mother, like so many of her generation, stepped forward.

No idea where the winds of fate would blow her, or if she’d be coming back.

There was evil loose in the world and it was her duty to face it, come what may.

“Stand up for yourself,” she would say to me. “Stick to it, never give up.” And she lived that way, chin up, ready to take on whatever slings and arrows might land at her doorstep.

For my part, I tried not to cross her, for she swung a mighty fist, gnarled and knobby, which drilled into my arm or could lay a bell-ringer across the back of the head if I did. No warning, just a whack to bring me to my senses.

Although I never told her, in her latter years she bore a striking resemblance to a world lightweight boxing champion – up on her feet, ducking and weaving, ready to lay a blow for freedom and democracy at a moment’s notice.

Now I say this by way of making a grander generalization to the generation of veterans from WWII, and from many of the wars and conflicts since. They stood up for what they believed, shouldered herculean burdens without complaint, and often died for the values and greater good of us all.

Their service and sacrifice has given us rights and freedoms and a standard of life never before enjoyed in the history of humankind. And my greatest fear is that we’re going to squander it all for a few bangles and baubles, and vague prom-

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ises from the well-manicured predators and purveyors of evil who in ever greater numbers again wander amongst us.

It seems to me that our common bonds, as a society, as an aspiring clan of kith and kin, are being broken one by one.

The glue which had us give of ourselves, help others and stand up for our beliefs even when it wasn’t in our own personal interest to do so, is getting old and weak.

I think the oft-stated homily that we’ve all got to be responsible for ourselves, has led to our society casting off responsibilities for the common good, only looking after #1. Fewer and fewer are willing to give even a small amount of their time or money to charities. Fewer and fewer are willing to swing a gnarly fist, or lay a blow for freedom and democracy. And a lot of us, too many, don’t even notice the poor and ho

Violet Miller Ross WAF 1940, in the middle under the prop.

meless who ‘litter’ our streets in greater and greater numbers.

And in the future? Well, let it take care of itself I guess.

Maybe we’re just being lulled into complacency, or maybe bullied into a belief that it doesn’t matter, that we can’t do anything about it anyway, the odds are stacked against us, we’d just end up losing …so why even try?

Yeah, that’s the attitude our parents Laurie Gourlay has worked with environmental groups for 30-odd years, farms 20 acres organically with life-partner Jackie Moad, who’s army brat upbringing sees nothing wrong in the occasional head-slap – when L’s intemperate obstinacy warrants it! Both seek local solutions to global challenges, remembering the sacrifices of those who came before them.

and grand-parents fought World War II for. I can feel mom’s hand slapping the back of my head just for speaking like that. “Get out there and try again. Pick yourself up. Tell ‘em what’s what. Stand up for yourself. Make me proud.”

I remember mom, I know why I’m here and what I have to do. Act as if I can make a difference, as if the world needed just one more person to stand up and be counted. As if paradise lost could be found, and our common future held the promise of peace and prosperity for all.

I can do that, and I will.

Thanks, eh.

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RDN - Area A Remembrance Day, Cedar Skate-Bike Park

BY ALEC MCPHERSON November is the time of the year when we wear a red poppy in memory of those who sacrificed their lives for us during wars and other missions. For Canadians, the missions date from the 1899 – 1902 South African War (also known as the Second Anglo-Boer War) to current missions in the Middle East. What we now refer to as Remembrance Day was originally referred to as Armistice Day with services held to commemorate the end of World War I at the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month,

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November 11th 1918. In 1931, a bill was introduced in the federal parliament to recognize Remembrance Day as falling on November 11th of each year. To avoid any potential conflict with another traditional holiday, Thanksgiving Day was moved to October 12th. When you purchase and wear the symbolic poppies being sold by the Royal Canadian Legion, you are both recognizing those who served and assisting the Legion in raising funds for our veterans.

On Saturday, Nov. 2, 2013, members of the local Legion will be placing crosses on the graves of veterans interred at Cedar Valley Memorial Gardens.

These crosses will remain on the graves through November 11th. It is remarkable to see the many crosses marking the

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graves of local veterans. While 11 a.m. ceremonies will be conducted at many city-based cenotaph locations, the Cedar Valley annual Remembrance Day service will be held in the Field of Honour at 1:30 p.m. on November 11th.

On a completely different note, construction on the Cedar Skate-Bike Park was begun in late September at the Cedar Community Secondary School site. It is scheduled for completion – weather permitting – prior to the end of November.

At a cost of approximately $575,000, this is the largest single recreation project undertaken within an electoral area of the Regional District of Nanaimo.

This project would not have been possible without the generous assistance of the provincial government in funding 80% of the project. The local Cedar Skate Park Association has also contributed approximately $46,000 to this project. The Cedar Skate Park Association, under the capable and determined leadership of Vicki Suddaby, relentlessly pursued the goal of a skate-bike park in Area ‘A’ over a period spanning more than a dozen years. On at least two other occasions, their spirits were raised through grant applications sponsored by the Regional District of Nanaimo only to have their hopes dashed when the funding requests were denied. Kudos also go to the Regional District of Nanaimo Parks, Recreation and Culture staff who wrote a most impressive grant application supporting the funding request and to the Board who providing their backing by designating it as a priority item.

With the recent school closure announcements by SD 68 targeting Area ‘A’, the available recreational facilities in the form of school gymnasiums could be reduced significantly. Perhaps the time has come for Area ‘A’ to move towards less reliance on the schools and more reliance on community-owned facilities. alecmcpherson@shaw.ca

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CVRD - Area H Smoke and noise control bylaws

BY MARY MARCOTTE October 3rd Community Meeting: Thanks to everyone who attended the community meeting held on October 3, 2013 at the North Oyster Community Centre. Although time did not allow us to have a thorough discussion on the proposed Smoke Control and Noise Control Bylaws, I did get a sense of your concerns related to the bylaws. I very much appreciate the input I received.

An additional follow up meeting was sponsored North Oyster/Diamond Ratepayers Association at their regular monthly meeting. Again, I got a clearer sense of the support and concerns for both bylaws, and appreciate the opportunity to work with the community.

I also wish to recognize and thank Keith Lawrence, CVRD Senior Environmental Analyst, for his presentation on options for watershed protection. In my opinion, his presentation provided an avenue that merits further explora-

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tion. And also thank you to Mayor Rob Hutchins and Frank Limshue of Couverdon for their presentations on the proposed Town of Ladysmith boundary expansion. Although many elements have not been finalized; together Rob and Frank provided an explanation of the size, scope and purpose of the proposal from their perspective. They also covered the regulations and process involved in moving an application forward to the Province.

Of course, the North Oyster/Diamond community has an entirely different perspective about this boundary expansion and concerns about the proposal remain high. I believe it is imperative that we work together as a community to find a watershed protection solution that does not involve the trading away of Vancouver Island’s very limited natural resources, and protects the rights of rural residents.

Smoke Control Regulation Bylaw No 3716: Technically the Province has the mandate to regulate and control air pollution, including smoke, ash, soot, cinders,

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fumes etc. unless the local government chooses to take on that responsibility.

However, for the last number of years the Province has not acted upon public burning complaints, and in fact referred callers to the Regional District. Some formerly rural areas have seen an increase in density, and also an increase in burning complaints that impact upon the resident’s health and well being. Public pressure has been applied to the Regional District to take action. This bylaw was drafted to answer the public’s concerns; as per the public consultation the Bylaw has been adopted for Electoral Areas A (Mill Bay/Malahat); B (Shawnigan Lake); C (Cobble Hill); D (Cowichan Bay) and E (Sahtlam/Glenora).

Section 4 of the Bylaw – parts 1, 2, 3, and 4 describe actions that are prohibited by the regulations. While Part 5 describes what is permitted, and how the burning is to be conducted. Under the regulations, open burning is permitted from March 15 through April 15 and from October 15 through November 15 provided the fire complies with the stipulations in the bylaw. Some of the stipulations include the timing, size and composition of the burn pile.

Excluded from these regulations are First Nations lands, Crown lands, Forestry practice and Normal Farming Practices within the Agricultural Land Reserve.

The Directors from the remaining Electoral Areas, F (Honeymoon Bay South/Skutz Falls); G (Saltair/Banyon Creek); H (North Oyster/Diamond) and I (Youbou/Meades Creek), are now in the process of introducing the Bylaw to their communities and seeking community input. We also have a meeting scheduled with Provincial officials to obtain a better understanding of Provincial responsibilities and response obligations. The feed back that I have received thus far has included both support for and opposition to implementation of the bylaw.

Obviously, more community discussion and better understanding is required before moving it forward.

Draft Noise Control Bylaw 3723: Also under consideration at this time is a draft noise bylaw. Because the existing noise bylaw was not tied to exact measurements of offensive noise emanating from a property the bylaw was difficult to enforce. Again, because of increasing

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noise complaints in all of the nine Electoral Areas the bylaw has been updated and redrafted. Following is a brief highlight of my interpretation of the bylaw.

I will stress that this bylaw has not been finalized and has not yet been adopted by any electoral area in the Regional District.

The regulations in this draft bylaw are specific as to what constitutes an “objectionable noise or sound” and when it is objectionable. It specifies different decibel levels for different times of the day and different days of the week. And it specifies where the measurements of sound levels are taken.

The bylaw also contains a section on exclusions, one of which includes the making of noise which is usual to the uses that are permitted within each zone of the applicable Zoning Bylaw. This means that if you are in a residential zone, you are entitled to do the things that are normally done in a residential area – lawn mowing, tree trimming, home repair, etc. It is recognized that everyone makes noise from time to time.

The purpose of the bylaw is really to foster consideration of your neighbours when you undertake noisy activities.

Timing is everything!

And the final highlight of the bylaw is about “Special Events”. Most of us have outdoor gatherings in the summertime.

It’s part of the rural lifestyle. There is an allowance in this draft bylaw that for special occasions like a wedding or a family reunion, that may make it impossible or impractical to fully comply with

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the bylaw. In the case of such an event, a person may apply for and receive from the Regional District a permit waiving the requirements of this bylaw for a specific time and place.

I will conclude by stating that neither the Smoke Control Bylaw nor the Noise Control Bylaw is in effect for Area H at this time. The feed back that I have received thus far is that, of the two bylaws, the Smoke Control Bylaw is the most contentious and therefore requires more consideration. You can obtain an electronic version of these bylaws by searching Bylaw Nos. 3716 and 3723 on the CVRD web site (www.cvrd.bc.ca) or call the toll free number (1-800-6653955) to request a faxed or hard copy.

CVRD Area G The CVRD governing process

BY MEL DOREY In the CVRD there are 9 electoral areas. Saltair and the Gulf Islands (Thetis, Penelakut, Reed, Valdes and other small islands) of which Area G is one of them.

The directors of these 9 electoral areas form a committee that is the governing body that passes bylaws, does variances and rezoning of these areas. This is called the Electoral Service Committee or EASC. All of these actions have to be finally passed and approved or defeated in front of the full CVRD board of directors which includes an additional 6 directors from the municipalities of Ladysmith, North Cowichan, Duncan and Lake Cowichan. North Cowichan has

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3 directors because they have a bigger population of about 30,000. So in total, there are 15 CVRD directors. Most of the bylaws governing the CVRD have to be sent to the province for a final stamp of approval. So there are a lot of checks and balances put in there to see that things are done properly. And if the bylaws are not quite right they can be amended by the very same process again. The democratic process usually gets around to do doing things right eventually if not done quite right the first time.

Seaside Manufactured Home Park The Seaside Manufactured Home Park at 11255 Chemainus Road is moving ahead with development after sitting idle for about five years and a lot of controversy. They will be putting in 15 manufactured dwellings on the five acre lot or they will have to ask for a rezoning to be able to put in stick built dwellings.

A local businessman asked that they be able to put in stick built so that the local economy get a boost of about $4 million in labour and materials but the CVRD says “no”, you must go through the rezoning process to do that.

Local residents in the close neighbourhood circulated a petition to ask for “stick built dwellings” be allowed but the CVRD wants to go through the full process before approving them.

This development also will provide a public beach access for local residents and provide looping in the water system so that the people in the Solmie and Greenhill Road areas will get fresher water at all times.

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You Mac, or Harmac?

Harmac, for you out of towners, is the pulp mill in Cedar that for the last 50 years or so has provided the world with fine newsprint and Nanaimo with a signature aroma. It also provides the town’s signature joke, one that every thirteen year old male delights in. “Is that you Mac, or Harmac?” (When it comes to maturity, thirteen is about it for a male.)

Well the same question is still being asked, but no one’s laughing. I’m talking about what has become known as The Big Stink in Cedar, a mysterious smell that shows up unpredictably like the Lone Ranger, causing its victims to wonder not only who was the masked man, but why does he smell so bad.

The smell strikes when least expected, at a Sunday picnic down on the river, a family BBQ, softball tournaments are nice, and worst of all at your youngest daughter’s outdoor wedding, where Uncle Ernie, two beers in, zinged everyone on the groom’s side with the “U Mac/ Harmac” question, which didn’t go well with the bride’s support team.

The smell, for the uninitiated, resembles a cheap cigar being butted out in a loaded diaper. Should you wish to duplicate this experiment at home, remove baby from diaper before proceeding.

Keep in mind Cedar is sensitive about smell. Understandable when your perimeter is secured by a pulp mill on one side, and a garbage dump on the other. No wonder long-suffering locals are upset.

No one more so than our local RDN guy, who is pointing his finger, in addition to a well plugged nose, in the direction of a Duke Point composting company. But what’s this? The compost company is fighting back, in effect using Uncle Ernie’s line, “It ain’t me Mac, it’s Harmac.”

Dialogue between combatants, after being subjected to the Slightly Corked truth filter where everything is either blown out of proportion or dutifully modified, plays to the tune of Abbott and Costello, and goes something like this: Our guy: You stink.

Compost guy: No, Stinks on second Our guy: No! You stink.

Compost guy: How many times do I have to tell you, Stinks on second Our guy: Well. Who’s on third?

“The Big Stink in Cedar, a mysterious smell that shows up unpredictably ... causing its victims to wonder ...”

Compost guy: How would I know, the wind’s blowing the wrong way.

Meanwhile, the Mayor of Vancouver, ever the opportunist, throws his nose ring in the game with, “Hey guys, since it stinks over there anyway, how’d you like to process our garbage?” To which I say, “Not now Gregor, we’re squabbling.”

To settle this dispute, the Regional District has brought in a professional odour detector. A man to stick his nose in other people’s business, now there’s a career most people haven’t thought about. Odour detection, where people go when the pest extermination classes are full.

Now you might be asking, how does one get to be an odour detector? If you’re not asking, don’t worry, I’ll ask for you.

I suppose it’s like every other career choice, it gets down to aptitude, and as everyone knows, aptitude can show up at a very early age.

Teacher: What do you want to do for a living Billy?

Billy: Well, for a start I’d like to smell your armpits. A sniff or two at your laundry room would be nice. And flatulence, I’ve always been fascinated with flatulence. And then I’d… Silence as cone of silence lowers over Billy.

Well, I say this is an important job, one that we shouldn’t trust to an outsider, regardless of how many armpits he’s smelled. We should have a local guy do it, and then I thought, why not me?

I’ve spent the last 40 years with my nose perched over a wine glass assessing aromas, who has better qualifications?

So it’s off to Duke Point, there I discover many a suspicious looking prop-

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erty, tall smoke stacks, tarped piles and leaking vapours. One place in particular is locked down like Doctor Evil’s headquarters. If Bruce Willis goes missing, that’s the first place we should look.

I also learned that smells are crafty, it can be very hard to tell where they’re coming from. Which can be a good thing in the event of an accidental release of flatulence, say at your wife’s Christmas office party, especially after her stern warning about misbehaving.

Compounding matters, and any wine taster will tell you this, once you become accustomed to a smell, it can disappear.

You might get freshly deposited cow pie on wine #3 six times in a row, and then, presto, where did the cows go?

Hold on. Deep thought. Why are we trying to get rid of the smell? Why don’t we exploit it? Think about it. The smell is headquartered at the top of the long slope exiting the ferry terminal, perfectly situated to snag BMW driving fat cats rolling in from Vancouver, the very same guys who tried to fast talk us into taking their garbage.

Payback time. We’ll establish a market area much like the Cedar Farm Market, but specializing in all matters malodorous. The arts and craft community can gather together to offer a variety of products designed to help you through a bad smell. Crocheted facemasks, hand carved nose plugs, seminars on bad smell protocol. Hell, the kids can even get in on the fun with hand painted clothes pegs, nose pegs we’ll call them.

And let’s leave them laughing shall we, that’s always good for repeat business. And nothing promotes laughter and good feelings better than a joke. That’s why we’re building a gargantuan sign, and just above the Welcome to Nanaimo part, in letters Stevie Wonder couldn’t miss, the joke this city made famous: (You guessed it. Or at least Uncle Ernie did.) IS THAT YOU MAC, OR HARMAC? If you should have BMW yuppies to entertain, try B.C. produced Cassini Pinot Noir, approximately $20, try the Wheatsheaf.

- Delbert is the co-proprietor at Mahle House. Read more at Slightlycorkedandmore.wordpress.com

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Ladysmith’s longest serving mayor On Nov 19, 1993, Rob Hutchins was elected Mayor of Ladysmith at the young age of 37 years old. After 20 years in office, we asked him to share his thoughts with us.

T5: You have the title of being Ladysmith’s longest running mayor... how does that feel?

RH: Not sure what longest running means...I know I am always on the run....but longest serving mayor - how does that feel? It feels good, so much has been accomplished over the years by so many, such an exceptional community to be able to serve in this capacity, despite the challenges, and sacrifice, it is still very rewarding.

T5: You’ve seen many changes...in 20 years what are some of the accomplishments during that time?

RH: There is a long list, here are a few of the highlightsThe Green Street Program and the planting of 1000 boulevard trees -a community beautification initiative that included creating a gateway to our community, upgrades to Bob Stuart Park, Aggie Bank, the remake of Aggie Hall and grounds, the overhaul of Transfer Beach Park, the building of the Amphitheatre and the addition of the Eco Tourism Centre and Spray Park.

The second stage First Avenue Revitalization that saw a modern round-about, in 1999 a Light Up that stretched the entire length of First Avenue, the creation of the Heritage Artifact Walk... initiatives such as these lead to the Town being awarded the National Community in Bloom Award for 2003 and being recognized by Harrowsmith Magazine as one of the ten prettiest small towns in Canada.

The highway improvement project in partnership that saw two new accesses to our waterfront, the new Rocky Creek Light Industrial Park, the southern boundary expansion in partnership with Saltair to allow for the potential of a heavy industrial park, and the establishment of the LMS community marina and town buildings on the waterfront.

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The construction of the Holland Creek, Heart Lake/Stocking Lake and Rotary Trails.

Upgrades to the Frank Jameson Community Centre, construction of adventure playgrounds. Partnership with Ladysmith Family and Friends to provide a Family Resource Centre to hundreds of our families.

Doing better by our environment… the first in the region to introduce universal curbside collection of recycling in 1995, composting our own yard and garden waste and sewage sludge and producing hundreds of tonnes of topsoil since that time.

The introduction of universal water metering in 2002 and an investment in a sewage treatment plant that will see us move from primary to secondary treatment by the end of 2014.The development of the community gardens and the planting of vegetables in the town flower beds.

The construction of a new RCMP building on Sixth Avenue, the transformation of our High Street property into the new Ladysmith Resource Centre buildings, the building of Forrest Field - one of the finest fields in B.C that allows us to be proud host of regional soccer tournaments.

The relocation of residents of the Ivy Green Mobile Home Park that were being evicted, the transition from a local hospital to a community health centre, however a difficult and emotional time it was, the outcome has exceeded expectations.

A new covered water reservoir, the upgrade to the Town’s portion of the Chemainus Highway. The renovated LMS Community Marina and new Welcome Centre, the establishment of the Ladysmith Archives and Museum.

Local and regional initiatives such as Emergency Preparedness.

Our Community Accord and Memorandum of Understanding with Stz’uminus First Nation as an example of our efforts to build relationships and create partnerships for the betterment of the greater community.

T5: What are you personally most proud of?

RH: I am not sure I can select a single initiative...I am very proud of the incredible sense of community spirit and of the overwhelming generosity of so many to give in both time and resources to make Ladysmith that much better and that our

Above:) Today’s Town Council with Rob Hutchins. Note: Two of the councillors Duck Paterson and Glenda Patterson are in the 1993 photo as well. Photo: Town of Ladysmith (Left) Rob Hutchins in centre back in 1993 when he first became mayor.

Photo: Ladysmith Chronicle.

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town can be described as a caring community.

T5: What continue to be challenges?

RH: A legacy from the past. The industrial waste that pollutes our waterfront from Fishermanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wharf to Transfer Beach - residual of copper smelting, coal washing and wood waste. Some $28,000,000 worth of environmental clean-up that is a Provincial Government responsibility and liability and such a deterrent for us to create a wonderful and vibrant waterfront area. Also, ensuring that we are a complete community - live, work, and play - with a healthy business core despite the competition from larger centres to the north and south.

T5: Anything that didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t go as well as expected? Any surprises?

RH: There are always bumps in the road and surprises along the way, the very first one was some twenty years ago, I know Susan and I did not have a clear understanding of the time commitment and/or of the personal sacrifice required to take on such a community role.

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T5: Will you be doing anything to celebrate the 20 years?

RH: No, I have never thought of it as a milestone or anniversary to celebrate...I will just be getting on with business. The 20 years has gone so fast. Emails and cellular phones were still in the future.

However, I must say every day has been an adventure. We are fortunate to live in a community where 19 years after beginning my Mayorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Open Door citizens continue to drop in with words of thanks, issues of concerns, or ideas/initiatives to make our community that much better.

Rob retired from his teaching career of 32 years with SD 68 in 2012 to take on the role of Chair of the CVRD. As if that and his role as Mayor of Ladysmith were not enough, he also participates as Director of Island Coastal Economic Trust, as co-chair of Cowichan Watershed Board and Cowichan Community Health Network. He is married to Susan McDonald and they have five adult children and four grandchildren. The family owns and operates the Old Town Bakery and the Wild Poppy Bistro.

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November 1-2

7, Boating Essentials Course, Frank Jameson Community Centre, 250-245-6424

1-3, 12pm, 24th Annual Nanaimo Professional Craft Fair, Beban Park Centre, 2300 Bowen Rd. 250-390-3995

8, 9:55am, Royal Canadian Legion Colour Party & Band, Ladysmith Secondary School 250-245-2183 8, 10am, Mixed Choir, Chemainus Seniors Drop In Centre, 9824 Willow St., 250-246- 2111

1-2, Dracula, Chemainus Theatre Festival, 9737 Chemainus Rd., 250-246-9820

8, 1:30pm, Royal Canadian Legion Colour Party & Band, La Rosa Gardens, 1211 Cloke Rd, 250245-2183

1, 10am, Mixed Choir, Chemainus Seniors Drop In Centre, 9824 Willow St., 250-246- 2111 1-2, Vancouver Island Chamber Music Festival, Nanaimo Conservatory of Music, 250- 754-8550

8, 7pm, Pool, Royal Canadian Legion 171, 621 1st Ave., Ladysmith. 250-245-2273

1, 2:30-5pm, Ladysmith Health & Community Service Fair, Ladysmith Secondary School, VIHA, 250-739-5777

9, 9:55am, Live at Met: Puccini/Tosca, Cowichan Theatre, 2687 James St., 250-748-7529 9, 10am, Bazaar, St. John’s Anglican Church,

1, 7pm, Pool, Royal Canadian Legion 171, 621 1 St Ave. 250-245-2273

9, 7pm, Youth Group Activities, St. Mary’s Parish Hall, 1135 4th Ave., 250-245-3079

2, 9am, Highland Dance Competition, Cowichan Theatre, 2687 James St., 250-748-7529

9,7pm, Programmed Music, Chemainus Seniors Drop In Centre, 9824 Willow St., 250-246-2111

2, 10am, Bazaar, St. Mary’s Parish Hall, 1135-4th Ave.

November 10-16

2, 10am, 24th Annual Nanaimo Professional Craft Fair, Beban Park Centre, 2300 Bowen Rd., 250390-3995 2, 11am, Mary Fox Pottery Studio Sale, 321 3rd Ave., 250-245-3778 2, 7pm, Youth Group Activities, St. Mary’s Parish Hall, 1135 4th Ave. 250-245-3414 2, 7pm, “Size Matters”, Ladysmith Waterfront Gallery, 610 Oyster Bay Dr. 250-245-1252 2, 7:30pm, International Guitar Night, Cowichan Theatre, 2687 James St., 250-748-7529

November 3-9 9, Dracula, Chemainus Theatre Festival, 9737 Chemainus Rd., 250-246-9820 3, 9am, Highland Dance Competition, Cowichan Theatre, 2687 James St., 250-748-7529 3, 10am, 24th Annual Nanaimo Professional Craft Fair, Beban Park Centre, 2300 Bowen Rd., 250390-3995

10, 10am, Wild Mushroom Workshop, Wildwood Forest, Crane Rd., Cedar 4, 7pm, Crib, Royal Canadian Legion 171, 621 1st Ave., Ladysmith. 250-245-2273 4, 7pm, Town of Ladysmith Council meeting, 410 Esplanade, 250-245-6400 5, 1pm, Chemainus Garden Club meeting, Calvary Baptist Church, 3318 River Rd., 250-246-1207 5, 1pm, Duplicate Bridge, Cedar Heritage Centre, 1644 MacMillan Rd., 250-722-2692 5, 6:30pm-8pm, SepticSmart Workshop, RDN Recreation and Parks, 250 248 3252 5, 7pm, Poker, Royal Canadian Legion 171, 621 1st Ave., Ladysmith. 250-245-2273 6, Men’s or Ladies Night, Cottonwood Golf Course, 1975 Haslam Rd. 250-245-5157 6, 6:30pm, Bingo, St. Mary’s Parish Hall, 1135- 4th Ave., 250-245-3079

3, 1pm-3;30pm, Dyslexia Free Information Seminar, ReSet Carole Ford, 250-245-8412

6, 7pm, Darts, Royal Canadian Legion 171, 621 First Ave., Ladysmith. 250-245-2273

4, 9am, Men’s Choir, Chemainus Seniors Drop In Centre, 9824 Willow St., 250-246- 2111

7, 9:30am, Healthy Leg Day, Pharmasave, 441 1st Ave. 250-245-3113

4, 11am, Ladies Choir, Chemainus Seniors Drop In Centre, 9824 Willow St., 250-246- 2111

7, 11:15am, T.O.P.S. Meeting, Bethel Tabernacle, 1149 4th Ave. 250-245-8234

4, 4:45pm, Bingo, Chemainus Seniors Drop In Centre, 9824 Willow St., 250-246- 2111

7, 11:30am, Soup & Sandwich Ladysmith Legion 171, 621 First Ave., Ladysmith. 250-245-2273

4, 6:15pm, Children’s Religious Education, St. Mary’s Parish Hall, 1135 4th Ave. 250-245-3414

7, 1:30pm, Royal Canadian Legion Colour Party & Band, Lodge on 4th Ave. 250-245-2183

10, 10:30am, Royal Canadian Legion Poppy Drive, First United Church, 232 High St. 250-2452183 11, 9am, Men’s Choir, Chemainus Seniors Drop In Centre, 9824 Willow St. 250-246- 2111 11, 11am, Ladies Choir, Chemainus Seniors Drop In Centre, 9824 Willow St. 250-246- 2111 11, 4:45pm, Bingo, Chemainus Seniors Drop In Centre, 9824 Willow St. 250-246- 2111 11, 6:15pm, Children’s Religious Education, St. Mary’s Parish Hall, 1135 4th Ave. 250-245-3414 11, 10:30 Remembrance Day Parade, Royal Canadian Legion 171 621 1st Ave., Ladysmith.

250-245-2273 11, 10:45 Remembrance Day Service, Royal Canadian Legion 171 621 1st Ave. Ladysmith.

250-245-2273 11, 7pm, Crib, Royal Canadian Legion 171, 621 1st Ave., Ladysmith. 250-245-2273 12, 1pm, Duplicate Bridge, Cedar Heritage Centre, 1644 MacMillan Rd., 250-722-2692 12, 7pm, Poker, Royal Canadian Legion 171, 621 1 St Ave., Ladysmith. 250-245-2273 13, Men’s or Ladies Night, Cottonwood Golf Course, 1975 Haslam Rd., 250-245-5157 13, 6:30pm, Bingo, St. Mary’s Parish Hall, 11354th Ave. 250-245-3079

13, 7pm, Darts, Royal Canadian Legion 171, 621 First Ave., Ladysmith. 250-245-2273

18, 11am, Ladies Choir, Chemainus Seniors Drop In Centre, 9824 Willow St., 250-246- 2111

13, 7:30pm, Colin James: Up Close & Personal, Cowichan Theatre, 250-748-7529

18, 4:45pm, Bingo, Chemainus Seniors Drop In Centre, 9824 Willow St., 250-246- 2111

14-15, 12pm, 34th Annual Christmas Chaos, Island Savings Centre, 2687 James St. 250-7487529

18, 5:15pm, Chronic Pain Support Group, 1111-4th Ave., Rm 101, 250-667-5587 www. chronicpainsupport.ca

14, 11:15am, T.O.P.S. Meeting, Bethel Tabernacle, 1149 4th Ave. 250-245-8234

18, 6:15pm, Children’s Religious Education, St. Mary’s Parish Hall, 1135 4th Ave. 250-245-3414

14, Boating Essentials Course, Frank Jameson Community Centre, 250-245-6424

18, 7pm, Crib, Royal Canadian Legion 171, 621 First Ave., Ladysmith. 250-245-2273

14, 6pm, 30th Annual Christmas Light Cruise, Transfer Beach. 250-245-8339

18, 7pm, Town of Ladysmith Council meeting, 410 Esplanade, 250-245-6400

14, 7pm, The Audience (NT Live Encore), Cowichan Theatre, 2687 James St., 250-7487529

19, 1pm, Duplicate Bridge, Cedar Heritage Center 1644 MacMillan Rd., 250-722-2692

15-16, 9am-5pm, Christmas Studio Sale, YellowPoint Country Home, 3172 Farrar Rd. 250-245-4238 15-16, Vancouver Island Interclub Skating Competition, Fuller Lake Arena.

15, 10am, Mixed Choir, Chemainus Seniors Drop In Centre, 9824 Willow St., 250-246- 2111

19, 7pm, Poker, Royal Canadian Legion 171, 621 1 St Ave., Ladysmith. 250-245-2273 20, Men’s or Ladies Night, Cottonwood Golf Course, 1975 Haslam Rd., 250-245-5157 20, 9:30am, Blood Pressure Clinic, Chemainus Seniors Drop In Centre, 9824 Willow St., 250246- 2111

15, 9am, Uforik Computers 10th Anniversary, 410B 1st Ave., 250-245-2222

20,11:30am, Soup & Sandwich, Chemainus Seniors Drop In Centre, 9824 Willow St., 250246- 2111

15, 7pm, Pool, Royal Canadian Legion 171, 621 1 St Ave., Ladysmith. 250-245-2273

20, 6:30pm, Bingo, St. Mary’s Parish Hall, 11354th Ave., 250-245-3079

16-17, 10am - 5pm, 34th Annual Christmas Chaos, Island Savings Centre, 2687 James St., Duncan. 250-748-7529

20, 7pm, Darts, Royal Canadian Legion 171, 621 First Ave., Ladysmith. 250-245-2273

16, 9:30am, Pancake Breakfast, Chemainus Seniors Drop In Centre, 9824 Willow St., 250246-2111 16,11am, Christmas Bazaar and Tea, Ladysmith First United Church, 232 High St. 16, 6:30pm, Once Upon a Night Gala Fundraiser, Chemainus Theatre Festival, 9737 Chemainus Rd. 250-246-9800 16, 7pm, Youth Group Activities, St. Mary’s Parish Hall, 1135 4th Ave. 250-245-3414.

21-23, Artisans Christmas Self Guided Tour, various locations in Cedar.

21-24, 10am-4pm. Carols Crafters 5th Annual Christmas Craft Fair, North Oyster Community Centre, 13467 Cedar Rd. 250-754-8905 21, 10am, Annual General Meeting, Chemainus Seniors Drop In Centre, 9824 Willow St., 250246- 2111 21, 11:15am, T.O.P.S. Meeting, Bethel Tabernacle, 1149 4th Ave. 250-245-8234

16, 7:30pm, Steve Patterson, Cowichan Theatre, 2687 James St., 250-748-7529

21, 11:30am, Soup & Sandwich by donation, Royal Canadian Legion 171, 621 1 St Ave., Ladysmith 250-245-2273

November 17-23

22-23, It’s a Wonderful Life, Chemainus Theatre Festival, 9737 Chemainus Rd., 250-246-9820

20-26, Dracula, Chemainus Theatre Festival, 9 18, 1:30pm, The Nanaimo Hard of Hearing Group, Christ Community Church, Bowen Rd., 250-616-2962

22, 10am, Mixed Choir, Chemainus Seniors Drop In Centre, 9824 Willow St., 250-246- 2111

18, 9am, Men’s Choir, Chemainus Seniors Drop In Centre, 9824 Willow St., 250-246- 2111

22, 7pm, Pool, Royal Canadian Legion 171, 621 First Ave., Ladysmith. 250-245-2273 23, 7pm, Youth Group Activities, St. Mary’s

Parish Hall, 1135 4th Ave. 250-245-3414 23-24, 10am-3pm, Christmas Craft fair & Market, Nanaimo Dream To Travel Club, 250- 618-7918 23, 7pm, Dance- “Happy Hans”, Chemainus Seniors Drop In Centre, 9824 Willow St., 250246- 2111

November 24 -30 24-30, It’s a Wonderful Life, Chemainus Theatre Festival’, 9737 Chemainus Rd., 250-246-9820 24, Artisans Christmas Self Guided Tour, various locations in Cedar.

25, 9am, Men’s Choir, Chemainus Seniors Drop In Centre, 9824 Willow St., 250-246- 2111 25, 10:30am, Morning Musicale w/Sarah Hagen, Cowichan Theatre, 2687 James St., 250-7487529 25, 11am, Ladies Choir, Chemainus Seniors Drop In Centre, 9824 Willow St. 250-246- 2111 25, 4:45pm, Bingo, Chemainus Seniors Drop In Centre, 9824 Willow St., 250-246- 2111 25, 6:15pm, Children’s Religious Education, St. Mary’s Parish, 1135 4th Ave., 250-245-3079 25, 7pm, Crib, Royal Canadian Legion 171, 621 First Ave., Ladysmith. 250-245-2273 25, 7pm, Reel Alternatives- “Stories We Tell”, Cowichan Theatre, 2687 James St., 250-7487529 26, 1pm, Duplicate Bridge, Cedar Heritage Centre, 1644 MacMillan Rd., 250-722-2692 26, 7pm, Poker, Royal Canadian Legion 171, 621 1 St Ave., Ladysmith. 250-245-2273 27, Men’s or Ladies Night, Cottonwood Golf Course, 1975 Haslam Rd., 250-245-5157 27, 6:30pm, Bingo, St. Mary’s Parish Hall, 11354th Ave., 250-245-3079 27, 7pm, Darts, Royal Canadian Legion 171, 621 1 St Ave., Ladysmith. 250-245-2273 28, 11:15am, T.O.P.S. Meeting, Bethel Tabernacle 1149 4th Ave. 250-245-8234 28, 3pm, Festival of Lights, downtown Ladysmith.

29, 10am, Mixed Choir, Chemainus Seniors Drop In Centre, 9824 Willow St., 250-246- 2111 29, 7pm, Pool, Royal Canadian Legion 171, 621 First Ave., Ladysmith. 250-245-2273 29, 7:30pm, Victoria Symphony, Cowichan Theatre, 2687 James St., 250-748-7529 30, 10am - 2pm Cassidy Mobile Home Park Craft Fair, 1572 Seabird Rd. 250-245-2725

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30, 7pm, Youth Group Activities, St. Mary’s Parish Hall, 1135 4th Ave. 250245-3414 30, 7pm, High Street Coffee House entertainment, 232 High St., donations accepted for food bank.

28, 3pm, Festival of Lights, downtown Ladysmith.

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December 1-7 1-23, It’s a Wonderful Life, Chemainus Theatre Festival 9737 Chemainus Rd. 250-246-9820

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2, 9am, Men’s Choir, Chemainus Seniors Drop In Centre, 9824 Willow St. 250-246- 2111

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2, 11am, Ladies Choir, Chemainus Seniors Drop In Centre, 9824 Willow St. 250-246- 2111 2, 1pm, Chemainus Garden Club meeting, Calvary Baptist Church, 3318 River Rd. 250-246-1207 2, 4:45pm, Bingo, Chemainus Seniors Drop In Centre, 9824 Willow St. 250246- 2111 2,9,16, 6:15pm, Children’s Religious Education, St. Mary’s 1135 4th Ave. 250-245-3079 2, 7pm, Crib, Royal Canadian Legion 171, 621 1 St Ave., Ladysmith. 250245-2273 2, 7pm, Town of Ladysmith Council meeting, 410 Esplanade, 250 -245-6400 3, 7pm, Poker, Royal Canadian Legion 171, 621 First Ave., Ladysmith. 250245-2273 4, 7pm, Darts, Royal Canadian Legion 171, 621 First Ave., Ladysmith. 250245-2273 5, 11:15am, T.O.P.S. Meeting, Bethel Tabernacle, 1149 4th Ave. 250-2458234 5, 11:30am, Soup & Sandwich by donation, Royal Canadian Legion 171, 621 First Ave., Ladysmith. 250-245-2273 6-7, 3pm & 7pm, Yellow Point Christmas Spectacular, Cedar Community Hall 2388 Cedar Rd. 250-754-8550 6, LDBA Old Tyme Christmas & Candlelight Walk, downtown Ladysmith Plan your events at www.take5.ca/calendar!

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How to volunteer and still have (lots of) fun in the process Nov. 8 is “Volunteer Opportunity Day” in Ladysmith.

BY ROB PINKERTON Volunteering. The word sends some of us ducking and weaving as we look for cover. I’m kinda like that myself but it doesn’t have to be a negative experience.

The bad experiences are caused by people’s expectations of themselves and the organizations that they are giving their time to. There is the “high energy retiree” who is worried about filling time and over extend themselves...attaches themselves to lots of worthwhile causes. Then comes travel, grandchildren, health problems and other unforeseen circumstances and suddenly they have too much to do. How about the domineering personality who swoops into a position and is determined to have things done his/her way? This causes friction and discontent. There are outfits that refuse to change the way they have always done things and therefore drive people away in frustration. I could go on and on and I am sure you can come up with some examples as well.

Let’s examine a typical volunteer outfit. It may have a few paid coordinators. It will have some very dedicated, bossy long term people. It will have financial difficulties. It may be quite disorganized. It will bleed you dry and leave you a whimpering husk of your former self...if you let it.

There are a few rules...let’s call them guide lines...to retaining your sanity and actually enjoying your volunteer gig. First, and this is the most important one, you must have or get a sense of humour.

You are going to have to deal with the aforementioned bossy people, others that don’t do their tasks as you think they should and all kinds of personalities that can be abrasive. Think of your situation as a comic strip or a sitcom and enjoy the characters while not forgetting that you are one of them. A thick skin can also come in handy as some times the comic strip characters lose their charm.

The second guide line is to pick a position that you want to do. Don’t stick up your hand because the job is critical, necessary or the organization will wither into oblivion if you don’t.

It won’t.

Volunteering should be fun and fulfilling. If your committee is in need of a recording secretary and your stomach churns at the prospect, shuffle papers, avoid eye contact, pretend to be writing something, drop your pen and hide under the table but do not volunteer for this. Learn how to say “No”. If you have worked at a desk with numbers your entire career, don’t take the treasurer’s position unless you would love it. Maybe you would like to pound nails. If you loved your work and can contribute in that way, good.

Start small. This way you can observe the inner workings of the organization and scope out areas that would be satisfying to work in or perhaps find that you want to disappear. Remember that a board position is not to be taken lightly. You are expected

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to work.

I’m not trying to put you off; quite the opposite. I want you to have a good time. It can be tremendously satisfying with warm and fuzzy feelings. Follow the few suggestions above to avoid burn out and disappointment.

There are almost unlimited opportunities for volunteering in our community. I stopped by the Chamber of Commerce and was given a list of about 140 organizations that use volunteers and scanning it, I see some are missing.

Ladysmith Maritime Society is hosting a Volunteer Opportunity Day on Friday, Nov. 8 from 1 pm to 6 pm. All persons in the community are welcome to come to the Welcome Centre on the docks and learn about all the various areas...working with the museum, boat restoration shop, Festival, tour boat, Saturday work party, dock beautification to name some. You do not need to own a boat to be a member and there are benefits. There is a row boat that members can use any time and it is the intention to make other types of craft available.

An example LMS volunteer position would be Coordinator for the Ambassador Program. Our restored tug Saravan attends classic and wooden boat shows. The Coordinator would make application to the shows, arrange delivery crews and hotel accommodation. You could also be trained to operate Saravan and take part in the shows.

Hosts for the Welcome Centre are also needed. Hosts would greet guests from visiting boats and from the shore and inform them of marina facilities and events and services in town. The LMS museums are also in need of hosts.

Ladysmith Maritime Society is a non profit society that is committed to making our marina a welcoming attraction to our harbour and town. The public is always welcome to come and enjoy the facilities.

The Mount Brenton Power and Sail Squadron, the Royal Canadian Marine SAR, the Dragon Boat Organization and the Ladysmith & District Historical Society Museum representatives will be there as well to describe their organizations opportunities. This will be a no pressure informal gathering. Have a coffee and chat to Ladysmith Maritime Society members. Stroll our docks. That is a fun thing to do on any day.

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Moss rocks! (or Moss as an indicator of ecological health) On the forest walks I lead, I am frequently asked about the validity of the conventional wisdom of moss growing on the north side of trees (and is it a reliable guide if you are lost?). Since most mosses prefer moist locations, in theory north facing tree trunks should stay moister in the northern hemisphere and have more moss. But in our area, with rain concentrated in the winter and the sun usually scarce, this frequently is not the case. Also, if a tree has a bit of lean, it is the damper side which is likely to have a greater moss load. So don’t throw your compass out just yet!

Moss is a relatively uncomplicated plant, lacking the typical leaves, stems, roots and buds we often associate with vascular plants such as ferns, shrubs or trees. As a non-vascular plant, the body of moss has no roots; rather, it uses tiny “threads” to anchor itself to the stones, trees or ground where it grows.

Their affinity for water is a reflection of a lack of vascular systems as well as their origins. They are the most primitive of plants having evolved some 350 million years ago from algae well before the xylem cells of later plants which provide the plumbing to conduct water. This is also why they are small. Any taller and they would have trouble keeping damp

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and thus reduce their growing time because mosses can only photosynthesize when they are damp.

Small and primitive they may be, but with elegant adaptations they have succeeded in inhabiting a variety of habitats from tree trunks and stumps to rocks, cliffs, lakes, streams and even sidewalk cracks. Bigleaf maple alone harbours 20 species and estimates are that there are 22,000 species globally. During dry times of the year they desiccate and become dormant, but revive readily when moisture returns.

Their most challenging adaptations

Step Moss. Photo Jay Rastogi

were reproduction on dry land since their algal ancestors lived in water and had swimming sperm (mosses retain this feature). Successful reproduction requires a continuous film of water for the sperm to swim through. And it turns out they aren’t that good at swimming. The surface tension of water is rather strong for a weak microscopic sperm and most sperm exhaust their resources and die within an hour. Different species have come up with different ways to increase success such as releasing the sperm out under hydraulic pressure or releasing soap-like material which reduce the surface tension of a drop of water. Others

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use flat leaves to form a disk and when a raindrop lands on the disk the sperm are splashed out several inches.

Once fertilized the eggs draw nutrients from the mother plant and develop a capsule at the end of a stalk which harbours spores which can then colonize new territory. Many times they skip sexual reproduction altogether and start a clone from an existing piece of moss.

Many gardeners around here are not particularly fond of moss - though in other parts of the world it is treasured.

I’m thinking particularly of Japanese gardens where it is used to give a sense of age and calmness, but also in drier areas where moss is more difficult to grow.

I suppose it is an example of rarity adding value.

Ecologically mosses play several important roles. The first to establish themselves on rocky land, they break down rock and soil, creating a more hospitable environment for vascular plants to move into the neighborhood. The moss’s ability to absorb moisture also allows it to act as a sort of sponge, soaking up rainfall and helping prevent erosion of the landscape and also increase humidity for plants and other organisms such as salamanders and frogs.

The slow release of water also buffers extremes of stream flows. It is habitat for many insect species (which in turn are food for others) and creates favourable conditions for fungi and as a seedbed for some plants. Birds frequently use moss in their nests.

They also have direct value to humans. Historically moss was used to line cradles, for bedrolls, as absorbent pads, for diapers or for dressing wounds (sphagnum in WW II), insulation in boots, chinking for log cabins and cushioning for packing fruit. These days the biggest use is in moss baskets for hanging plants.

It may not make a reliable compass, but mosses are a very important and interesting group of plants and at this time of year the forest is alive with their brilliant greens on the forest floor and on the totem-like trunks of the maples.

Jay Rastogi is a naturalist, horticulturist and educator living in Yellow Point jay.k.rastogi@gmail.com

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75th Canadian Power Squadron Flag Anniversary

BY EMILY MIKULSKI On Sunday, September 29 Gabriola Squadron via Cecil Ashley, Vancouver Island North District Public Relations Officer, delivered the 75th CPS Anniversary flag for the special ceremony at the Ladysmith Maritime Society Welcome Centre. Ralph Hagen, Commander of Gabriola Squadron presented the flag to Art Rendell, Mount Brenton’s Training Officer. All of the dignitaries during the ceremony saluted Mount Brenton Squadron and each remarked that it was an honour to attend and speak at the special 75th CPS flag event. Following the ceremony there was cake cutting and a great social/appetizer hour.

On Monday, September 30, Shaw TV arrived to the LMS Welcome Centre to conduct interviews and filming of the event. John Davis, Executive Officer, spoke on behalf of Mount Brenton and Safe Boating. Cecil Ashley, VIND, PR Officer added additional pertinent Safe Boating information on behalf of the Vancouver Island North District. Paul Bottomley talked about his days as captain of the Saravan when it was a working tug boat.

At 1215 hours, Art Rendell, Training Officer, passed the 75th CPS flag to Jay Page, Assistant Training Officer. Jay stood proudly with the flag as the Saravan travelled southbound to Maple Bay to meet the Cowichan Squadron. The Ladysmith Royal Canadian Search and Rescue vessel and crew escorted the Saravan to Maple Bay. At 1615 hours, Jay, the 75th CPS flag and Saravan’s crew were piped in to the special ceremony room at the Maple Bay Yacht Club.

It was a wonderful two days; a great success for Mount Brenton Power and Sail Squadron and the 75th CPS Flag Anniversary!

LYC autum cruise Over 28 members and 10 boats from the Ladysmith Yacht Club braved the fog to enjoy a cruise to Maple Bay Marina on October 18 to 20. Following a dinner at the Maple Bay Marina restaurant, Bob Johns, the Social Director, got a laugh for having nothing to say but he felt like saying it anyway. Over 28 members attended.

The next big event for the club is the 2013 Commodore’s Ball at the Eagles Hall on November 2.

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CLASSIFIEDS

CEDAR HERITAGE BRIDGE INVITATION Christmas Bridge Party Pot Luck Lunch and bring Food Bank donation. Tuesday November 26th. 12:00 noon St. Philips Anglican Hall, Cedar.

Please register: 250-245-1294; 250-722-3399; 250-722-2656

BUSINESS THINKING OF SELLING YOUR HOME? Perhaps ready for a fresher look in your existing home? The affordable design services provided by Rooms n Blooms can help. Call Shar at 250-245-0548 or email shar@roomsnblooms.ca HANDCRAFTED GEMSTONE NECKLACES. Jade, garnet, lapis, aventurine and more! $20 each. See jewelry table at Campers Corner Saturday flea market, 8am-3pm. 250-245-3829 HANDMADE AND LOCAL PRODUCTS< GIFTWARE, CLOTHING Small commission, no registration fee. You have nothing to lose! List it on the Island Made e-store. http://www.take5.ca/ shop/.

KAREN’S INDUSTRIAL SEWING & ALTERATIONS Centrally located between Ladysmith & Nanaimo. Home based business with over 30 years experience. For all your special sewing needs. Call for appointment today. 250734-3001 SPECIAL EVENTS PHOTOGRAPHY Don’t trust just anyone! We have years of experience from weddings, family portraits to glamour and corporate clients. Free photo book included of your images. Email for quote and portfolio. marinasacht@yahoo.ca or call 250-245-9165 FAMILY MEMOIR EDITOR/WRITER: With 20 years’ editing/writing experience, and respect for family stories, I’ll help you create a memoir to pass on to future generations. Free consultation: Kari, 250-245-2751, karimagnuson@shaw.ca FOR ALL YOUR SEWING NEEDS - bedding, window treatments, couch and chair covers, cushions, pillows, special accessories and decor, dressmaking and alterations - what ever comes to your mind, Elke 250-618-1172 - info@ egrstudios.com NEW BEFORE AND AFTER CHILDCARE IN LADYSMITH! Sense of PlaceYouth Project Ltd. Lower floor - Bethel Church. Nature programming.

NO TV or video games. Transport to/from schools www.senseofplaceyp.com pattitollefson@live. com 250-797-2316 Lic#CDEN-97-JQWB EDUCATION DOING FAMILY RESEARCH? The Ladysmith Archives, located under Tim Horton’s, has Ladysmith newspapers dating from 1902, some on microfilm, also B.D. & M. going back many years, 250-245-0100 for an appt.

PIANO LESSONS Now accepting beginner to advanced students, private home studio. Call Josslyn and start playing today! 250-245-0067

FREE LIFE SKILLS LESSONS Graduate student seeking participants ages 14-18 in a potential research project involving the introduction of mature concepts: sustainability, accountability, life-long learning, leisure, giving and receiving feedback. beyonder417@hotmail.com HEALTH & BEAUTY ISAGENIX DISTRIBUTOR - Get Lean & Healthy Fast - Less than $5/ meal. Our protein shakes are amazing! - No Gluten, Wheat, Barley or Trans Fat. www.taketimetoday.com Suzanne Deveau 250245-8407 BOWEN TECHNIQUE is a gentle soft tissue remedial therapy that resets the body to heal itself. Useful for joint, back and neck pain, frozen shoulder, asthma, chronic fatigue and many other problems. For information and appointments call 250-245-7738. Lilja Hardy FMBAC in practice since 1994. www.bowtech.com TAI CHI - For mental and physical health. Beginner class starts September and January, Mondays; on-going class Wednesdays. Both classes 10 am- noon, Cedar Heritage Centre, 1644 McMillan Road. $20/mo.

Sara 250-245-1466 or www.nanaimotaichi.org HOME & YARD PAINT & SAVE OPTION: Do it yourself, with a little help from a pro together we can make your job more affordable and accomplish a great look.

Making the world a brighter place for over 25 years. Call Harvey for more information please 250-245-2174 OVERCOAT PAINTING - Professional - Reliable Reasonable. Operating 8 years in Ladysmith. No job to small. Will do minor painting repairs. Special senior rates. Call Nicole for a free estimate. 250667-4355 CINDERELLA’S RESIDENTIAL CLEANING Service, Contact Erin at 250-924-4475 or cell 250741-7916 SASSA’S HOME AND GARDEN CARE. No job to small. Affordable honest work. Duo team.

Cleaning, Gardening and Painting, outside and inside your home or business. 1-250-218-4735 or 250-924-4735 QUALITY RENOVATIONS Big or small. 25 yrs exp/journeyman, affordable. For free estimate call Lars 250-616-1800.

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THE HAPPY GARDENER. Weeding, digging, racking, tidying up, cutting back black berries, etc. Miscellaneous Yard Work. Cheerful and Conscientious. Call David 250-722-3599

LADYSMITH EAVES DROPPERS Gutter cleaning, leaf blowing, jet washing, snow removal.

Honest, reliable duo team. Please call for estimates 250-924-4735

LADYBUG’S MEW for Meticulous Garden Care contact “Farmer Doug” for a free quote 250-7139682 or doug@ladybugsmew.ca “When ‘good enough’ just isn’t good enough!”

PETS

AJ”s PLUMBING AND GAS Licensed-BondedInsured. Service-Installations-Renovation New construction. Quality workmanship. No travel charges. Free estimates. On time every time. 250802-7123 NEAT & TIDY HOUSEKEEPING 30+ years exp.

Business cleaning, laundry service. Personalized errand service. Locally owned and operated, bondable. Servicing Ladysmith and surrounding area. Sheila 250-245-4356 cell 250-668-5177 HOUSE CLEANING, window cleaning, cheerful, reliable and mature. Call 250-722-3599

KITTY KORNERS CAT HOTEL - Purrsonalized Quality Kitty Care. Daily health checks, experienced with special needs kitties.

Reasonable rates. Available 24/7. 2 km north of Nanaimo Airport. Take a virtual tour www. kittykorners.com 250-740-KATS (5287) HOME BUDDIES - PET & HOUSE CARE since 1994. Licensed, Bonded, Insured. Professional, kind-hearted, experienced and reliable care for all pets. Pet First Aid and CPR Certified. Certified Security Professional through Westguard Security.

When loving care and security are essential,: Peggy Wildsmith- 250-245-0151 PROFESSIONAL PET CARE SERVICE: leash ‘em & walk ‘em with Marlena. Insured and bonded.

Animal First Aid and CPR. Service for all pets

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including dog walking, home care visits, overnight with pet in your home and much more. As my love is yours! 250-246-3394 SENIORS ROOM & BOARD SUITABLE FOR SENIORS: North of Ladysmith. Large private room, common areas, fireplace, great food and snacks, Laundry, housekeeping, cable TV available, Call bell system, gardens, ocean view. www.lynnsseniorcare.com 250-245-3391 FOR RENT OFFICE SPACES Downtown Ladysmith, modern, reasonable rent or lease. 250-245-3395 ONE BEDROOM NEW DELUXE APARTMENT $850/mo. Air conditioning, stainless steel appliances, washer/dryer, skylight, crown moldings, granite counter tops, etc. Located in Ladysmith Trading Co. building downtown Ladysmith. N/S N/P 250-246-6624 APARTMENT FOR RENT Now available. Seniors 53+ 2 bdr well maintained 1000 sq. ft., newly updated cupboards, new carpet, drapes, repainted W/D-F/S-N/P’s-N/S. Free storage and parking. No elevator. $750/mth + hydro, references. 250-2454062, 250-758-5816

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